Little sleep hurts glucose homeostasis

Sleep deprivation has the potential to reduce insulin sensitivity and glucose tolerance, although the body appears to compensate and conserve β-cell function after 2 weeks of reduced sleep, according to a study.

In the study, researchers conducted a narrative review of all published randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that examined the role of sleep in glucose control. They accessed online databases and retrieved seven RCTs eligible for inclusion in the review.

The researchers also looked at the references in the RCTs for the presentation of the pathophysiology of metabolic disturbances in relation to sleep duration, as well as the relevant factors affecting blood glucose level.

According to the review, sleep deprivation and poor sleep quality showed a link to blood glucose disturbance and reduction of insulin sensitivity. This put patients with diabetic at heightened risk of glucose level fluctuations. Interestingly, the function of β-cells was likely to be preserved after 14 days of reduced sleep.

Conversely, sleeping in from 7 to 14 days reversed improved blood glucose control and insulin sensitivity in both healthy individuals and patients with diabetes.

For the patients, diabetes sleep education and personalized interventions aimed at reducing stress levels and improving sleep quality helped with glucose homeostasis.

In light of the findings, the researchers recommended optimum sleep duration and sleep quality in order to minimize the risk and progression of diabetes.